CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education – Complete Guide
Introduction
The CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education is one of the most widely recognized qualifications in the UK for individuals aspiring to work with children in early years settings. Awarded by NCFE CACHE (Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education), this diploma equips learners with in-depth knowledge, skills, and practical experience to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain understanding of children up to 7 years old.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the CACHE Level 3 Diploma, including its structure, units, benefits, career pathways, and how to enrol.
What Is CACHE?
CACHE stands for the Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education, and it is the UK’s leading awarding organization for the care and education sectors. CACHE qualifications are developed by experts to ensure that students gain practical, relevant, and up-to-date knowledge.
The Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) is a regulated qualification that meets the standards set by the Department for Education (DfE) in England.
Overview of CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
Qualification Title:
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator)
Qualification Number:
601/3998/5
Level:
Level 3 (Equivalent to A-levels)
Total Qualification Time (TQT):
1,115 hours, including 486 guided learning hours (GLH)
Age Group:
Learners must be 16 years or older to enrol.
Key Features of the Diploma
Combines classroom learning with real-world work placements
Enables registration as a qualified Early Years Educator (EYE)
Meets criteria for Level 3 Early Years Practitioner status
Recognized by Ofsted, nurseries, schools, and local authorities
Allows progression to university or employment
Entry Requirements
While requirements may vary by training provider, typical prerequisites include:
Minimum age of 16
GCSEs in English and Maths (grades 4/C or above preferred)
A clean DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
A passion for working with children
Some providers may conduct an interview or written assessment
Course Content and Units
The diploma is divided into 15 mandatory units, covering child development, safeguarding, education, and care.
Core Units Include:
Child Development from Conception to Seven Years
Stages of development
Physical, cognitive, and emotional growth
Children’s Health and Well-being
Nutrition, hygiene, health promotion
Preventing illness and supporting wellness
Providing Safe Environments for Children
Health and safety
Risk assessment and management
Child Health
Signs of ill health
Administering medication
First aid principles
Play and Learning
Importance of play in development
Planning and evaluating play-based activities
Understanding Children’s Additional Needs
Supporting children with disabilities or learning difficulties
Observation, Assessment, and Planning
Tracking progress and planning interventions
Supporting Emergent Literacy and Numeracy
Promoting early reading, writing, and math skills
Supporting Children’s Speech, Communication, and Language
Language development milestones
Interventions for speech delays
Supporting Children’s Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Building confidence, empathy, and resilience
Working in Partnership
Collaborating with parents, professionals, and communities
Supporting Children through Transitions
Managing changes such as starting school or moving house
Current Frameworks and Legislation
EYFS, safeguarding laws, and children’s rights
Reflective Practice
Evaluating your own performance and professional growth
Professional Practice Portfolio
Documented evidence from real work placements
Assessment Method
Assessments are carried out through:
Written assignments
Case studies
Workplace observations
Professional Practice Portfolio
Extended Assessment (graded A to D)*
There is no formal exam, but learners must successfully complete all units and practical requirements.
Work Placement Requirements
Learners must complete at least 750 hours in real-life childcare settings. This includes:
Nurseries
Pre-schools
Reception classes in schools
Childminders or children’s centres
Placement hours must span across different age ranges:
Birth to 1 year 11 months
2 to 2 years 11 months
3 to 5 years
Grading System
This qualification is graded A to D*, based on performance in:
Written coursework
Portfolio content
Practical experience
Final extended assessment
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates of the CACHE Level 3 Diploma can work in a variety of settings, including:
| Job Title | Average UK Salary |
|---|---|
| Early Years Educator | £19,000 – £26,000 |
| Nursery Nurse | £20,000 – £28,000 |
| Childcare Practitioner | £18,000 – £25,000 |
| Teaching Assistant (EYFS focus) | £18,000 – £24,000 |
| Childminder | Varies (self-employed) |
| Family Support Worker | £23,000 – £35,000 |
| Nanny or Private Tutor | £25,000 – £40,000 |
Progression Pathways
Once qualified, learners can:
Work in a childcare setting as a fully qualified Early Years Educator
Start their own childminding business
Progress to higher education, such as:
Level 4 or Level 5 Diplomas
Foundation Degree in Early Years
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies
PGCE in Primary Education (for teaching)
Apply for university courses through UCAS
UCAS Points for CACHE Level 3 Diploma
The Extended Diploma version of this qualification may carry up to 168 UCAS points (A* grade)
These points are accepted by many UK universities offering Early Years and Education degrees
Online or In-Person Learning
Many providers now offer blended or fully online learning for the theory part, combined with in-person placements. This makes it ideal for:
Working professionals
Career changers
Parents or guardians seeking flexible schedules
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees depend on the course provider. Common cost ranges:
Colleges/Universities: £1,500 – £3,000
Private Providers (Online): £900 – £2,500
Funding Options: Advanced Learner Loan (England), employer sponsorships, or payment plans
Some students aged 19+ may qualify for fully funded courses via government schemes.
How to Enrol
Step-by-Step:
Choose a CACHE-approved training provider
Check the entry criteria and application deadline
Prepare necessary documents (ID, qualifications, personal statement)
Attend interviews or assessments (if required)
Secure funding or payment method
Begin theory learning and placement simultaneously
Tips for Success
Maintain consistent attendance and commitment to both learning and placement
Stay organized and submit assignments on time
Reflect regularly on your practice using a personal journal
Seek feedback from mentors during your placement
Stay updated on UK safeguarding and education policies
Conclusion
The CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education is a respected and practical qualification that opens doors to rewarding careers in the early years sector. Whether you aspire to work in a nursery, become a childminder, or pursue higher education in child development, this diploma lays a solid foundation for long-term professional growth.
If you are passionate about supporting young children’s learning and development in a meaningful way, this qualification could be your ideal first step into a thriving, impactful career.
